Septic System and Onsite Wastewater Permitting in Wasatch County, A Guide for General Contractors

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Brandon Anderson
Principal
Civil engineer and general contractor with expertise in Weber County septic system permitting. He specializes in simplifying the approval process, ensuring designs meet local requirements while helping contractors keep projects on track.
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Septic system permit for wasatch county, Utah

Key Takeaways

Anderson Engineering provides general contractors in Wasatch County with expert guidance and tailored solutions for septic system permitting and design. From managing the permitting process to addressing unique site challenges like rocky soil, steep slopes, or high-occupancy demands, Anderson ensures compliance with local regulations and streamlines every step, including site evaluations, percolation tests, and system design. With decades of regional expertise, advanced engineering solutions, and a client-focused approach, Anderson Engineering helps contractors save time, avoid delays, and confidently move their projects forward.

Streamline the Permitting Process: Anderson Engineering simplifies septic system permitting in Wasatch County by handling site evaluations, regulatory compliance, and detailed system design, saving you time and reducing project delays.

Custom Solutions for Challenging Sites: Whether dealing with rocky soil, steep slopes, or high-demand properties, Anderson Engineering provides tailored septic system designs, including advanced options like mound systems and ATUs, ensuring compliance and functionality.

Expert Guidance and Local Knowledge: With decades of experience and familiarity with Wasatch County regulations, Anderson Engineering ensures your project meets all local health requirements while keeping your construction timeline on track.

Common Questions. Expert Answers.

Quick Answers

Who conducts percolation tests, and how do I schedule one?
Percolation tests must be performed by a state-certified professional, with a Wasatch County Health Department representative present. You’ll need to coordinate access to the site and schedule through a qualified engineer, like Anderson Engineering.
How long does the permitting process take?
The timeline varies depending on site conditions and the completeness of your application. It typically takes a few weeks, but delays can occur if additional documentation or revisions are needed.
Can I start construction before securing a septic permit?
No, the septic permit must be approved and attached to your building permit before construction can begin. Starting without approval risks fines and delays.
What happens if the site doesn’t meet standard requirements?
If standard requirements can’t be met due to rocky soil or steep slopes, alternative systems can be designed to ensure compliance. These systems address specific site challenges.

Go Deeper

Septic System and Onsite Wastewater Permitting in Wasatch County, A Guide for General Contractors

Table of Contents

Navigating the septic system permitting process in Wasatch County, Utah, requires a thorough understanding of local regulations, detailed site evaluations, and proper system design. An individual onsite system is required anywhere without access to a municipal wastewater treatment system. This guide provides a step-by-step overview to assist general contractors in streamlining the process.


Step-by-Step Guide for Obtaining a Septic System and Onsite Wastewater Permit

Step 1: Research Local Requirements for Onsite Septic Systems

Understanding local health requirements is the first step in ensuring compliance with septic tank regulations. Wasatch County enforces specific setback regulations, including:

  • Property Lines: 5 feet
  • Buildings: 5 feet
  • Drinking Water Wells: 100 feet
  • Streams or Water Bodies: 100 feet
Anderson’s Role:

We utilize Wasatch County GIS tools to verify zoning classifications, identify overlays like environmental protection zones, and confirm setback compliance.

Your Role:

Provide property details, including site plans and specifications, to a qualified professional to begin the research.

Additional Guidance:
  • Estimated Timeline: Confirming local setback requirements and collecting property details typically takes 1–2 days.

Step 2: Conduct Site, Soil Evaluations, and Percolation Tests

Site evaluations are crucial to determining the property’s suitability for a septic system. These include soil percolation tests and assessments of slopes and drainage patterns.

Anderson’s Role:

We schedule and oversee the percolation test with licensed professionals and a Utah-certified inspector. We also analyze the site to identify the best locations for the septic tank and drain field.

Your Role:

Grant site access to a certified professional for evaluation and review findings to ensure alignment with your project objectives.

Additional Guidance:
  • Estimated Timeline: Confirming local setback requirements and collecting property details typically takes 1–2 days.

Step 3: Develop a Septic System Design that Meets Public Health Requirements

The septic system design must be tailored to the site’s unique conditions and usage needs while meeting Wasatch County’s regulatory standards.

Anderson’s Role:

We design septic systems, ranging from conventional setups to advanced options like mound systems or aerobic treatment units (ATUs). Every design complies with Utah Administrative Code R317-4 and Wasatch County regulations.

Your Role:

Review and approve the proposed system design, providing feedback for needed adjustments.

Additional Guidance:
  • Estimated Timeline: Conducting the site evaluation, percolation test, and soil evaluation typically takes 1–2 weeks, depending on equipment availability and local health department requirements.

Step 4: Submit the Septic System Permit Application

A complete and accurate permit application is essential to securing approval without delays.

Anderson’s Role:

We prepare and submit the permit application to the Weber-Morgan Health Department, including detailed site plans, soil test results, and finalized system designs.

Your Role:

If required, sign the application documents as the applicant, the contractor, or the property owner and submit them to the Wasatch County Health Department.

Additional Guidance:
  • Estimated Timeline: Designing the system typically takes 1–3 weeks, depending on complexity.

Step 5: Address Review Comments

The Wasatch County Health Department may request clarifications or revisions during the review process.

Anderson’s Role:

We respond to feedback, update the design or documentation as needed, and ensure the revised application is resubmitted promptly.

Your Role:

Stay informed of updates and provide authorization for any necessary changes.

Additional Guidance:
  • Time Frame for Review: The county typically reviews submissions within 2–4 weeks, though this can vary depending on workload and complexity.

Step 6: Secure Approval, Attach to Building Permit, and Begin Construction

Once the septic system permit is approved, it must be attached to your building permit before construction begins.

Anderson’s Role:

We deliver the approved septic permit and, if requested, provide civil site design services to prepare the property for construction, including grading, drainage, and utility planning.

Your Role:

Attach the septic permit to your building permit and proceed with construction.

Additional Guidance:
  • Integration With Building Permits: Ensure the septic permit is on file with the county or city before significant building activities start to avoid delays in issuing the primary building permit.
  • Coordination With Other Trades: Confirm the final septic system placement with driveway installers, landscapers, and utility providers to prevent conflicts during or after construction.

Septic System and Wastewater Treatment System Costs in Wasatch County

Understanding costs upfront helps avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for septic systems in Wasatch County:

Cost ComponentRangeDetails
Soil Percolation Test$1550–$4,000Confirms site suitability for wastewater absorption and proper disposal.
Site Evaluation$500–$1,500Includes topographic and environmental assessments.
Septic System Design$2,000–$10,000Costs vary based on property complexity and system type.
Permit Application FeeCosts for septic tank installation typically range from $200–$500 for initial assessments.Paid to the Wasatch County Health Department.
System Installation (Conventional)$10,000–$20,000This is for properties with good soil and gentle slopes.
System Installation (Alternative)Installation costs for septic tanks typically range from $10,000–$55,000.Includes mound systems, ATUs, or sand filters for challenging conditions related to wastewater disposal.
Inspection and Final Approval$200–$500Covers county inspections during and after installation.
Maintenance Plan (Annual)$300–$600Regular pumping and inspections to ensure long-term reliability.

While conventional systems are often more affordable, properties with poor soil or steep slopes may require more expensive alternative designs.


Addressing Local Onsite Wastewater System Challenges in Wasatch County

Wasatch County’s diverse geography and seasonal weather patterns pose unique challenges for septic system placement:

  • Mountainous Terrain: Areas like the foothills of the Wasatch Range often require advanced designs to prevent effluent surfacing or erosion.
  • Snowmelt Runoff: The spring thaw can saturate the soil, reducing its absorption capacity for septic tank systems. Systems near streams like the Provo River or Deer Creek may need additional setbacks or protective measures.
  • Rocky Soil: Shallow bedrock in regions like Midway or Heber Valley necessitates mound systems or ATUs for proper functionality.
  • Tourism-Driven Usage: Vacation rentals and seasonal properties in areas like Jordanelle demand larger tanks or clustered systems to handle fluctuating occupancy levels.

Understanding and addressing these factors early ensures a smooth installation process and long-term reliability.


Choosing the Right Septic System Design

The type of septic system you choose depends on your site’s conditions and the property’s usage:

  • Conventional Systems are the most cost-effective options for suitable sites. They are ideal for sandy soils with good drainage.
  • Mound Systems: Effective disposal systems for specific site conditions. Designed for shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or poor soil absorption.
  • Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): Provide advanced wastewater treatment, making them ideal for environmentally sensitive areas or properties near water sources.

Work with an engineer to select a system that balances performance, cost, and compliance with Wasatch County’s regulations.


Case Study: A Local Solution in Timber Lakes

The Challenge: A four-bedroom cabin near Timber Lakes required a septic system to meet setback requirements and address challenges such as rocky soil and a sloped site.

The Solution:
Anderson Engineering designed a 1,250-gallon mound system with an ATU to manage wastewater effectively. The system met Wasatch County’s 100-foot setback from nearby water sources and included a secondary drain field for future scalability. This approach ensured compliance and provided reliable performance for the high-usage property.


Long-Term Maintenance for Wasatch County Systems

Regular maintenance keeps your septic system running efficiently and compliant with local regulations:

  • Pumping: Schedule every 3–5 years for residential systems or annually for high-demand properties like vacation rentals.
  • Inspections: Annual inspections help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
  • Winterization: Protect exposed components during Wasatch County’s cold winters to prevent freezing and damage.

Proactive maintenance reduces the risk of costly repairs and extends the life of your system.


How Anderson Engineering Can Help Design Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Septic Systems

At Anderson Engineering, we specialize in designing and permitting septic systems, and underground wastewater disposal systems tailored to Wasatch County’s unique challenges:

  • Local Expertise: Decades of experience in areas like Heber City, Midway, and Kamas, ensuring compliance with local health regulations.
  • Custom Solutions: From conventional systems to advanced ATUs, we deliver systems that meet your property’s needs.
  • Regulatory Support: We manage the permitting process, ensuring compliance with Wasatch County and Utah state regulations.
  • Ongoing Guidance: We provide maintenance recommendations to keep your system in top condition after installation.

Next Steps for Your Wasatch County Septic System

Ready to get started on your homeowner’s septic tank project? Let Anderson Engineering guide you through the process with expert advice, tailored designs, and hands-on support.

  • Schedule a Consultation: Discuss your project with our team for customized solutions.
  • Streamline Permitting: Let us handle the paperwork and compliance requirements.
  • Build with Confidence: Work with Anderson Engineering to design an efficient, reliable, and compliant system.

Contact us today to ensure your Wasatch County septic system project succeeds—from permitting to installation and beyond!

Go Even Deeper

Wasatch County Health Department
Comprehensive septic system guidelines for permitting and design.
Utah Onsite Wastewater Program
Statewide wastewater system guidelines and certification resources.
Wasatch County Building Department
Information on building permits and integrating septic approvals.
Utah Administrative Code R317-4
Official wastewater management policy for septic systems in Utah.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a septic system cost in Wasatch County?
Costs range from $15,000–$25,000 for conventional systems and $20,000–$75,000+ for alternative disposal systems, depending on site complexity, soil conditions, and system type.
What are the setback requirements for septic systems in Wasatch County?
Septic systems must be 5 feet from property lines and buildings, 100 feet from drinking water wells, and 100 feet from streams or natural water bodies. This are typical guidelines but each lot is specific.
What do I need to include in the permit application for the septic tank certificate?
Your application must include site plans, soil test results, the septic system design, and other required documents. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
How do I ensure compliance with Wasatch County regulations?
Compliance involves thorough site evaluations, accurate designs, and adhering to setback and wastewater treatment requirements. Working with a knowledgeable professional can streamline the process and ensure all standards are met.
What is the process for obtaining an onsite septic system permit in Wasatch County?
To obtain a septic system permit in Wasatch County, contractors must first submit a detailed design plan to the county health department. This plan should include soil evaluations, percolation test results, and a design of the proposed septic system. Once the design is approved, the health department will issue a permit that allows for the installation of the system. It is crucial to follow the guide to septic systems provided by the county health department to ensure compliance with local regulations.
What are the requirements for soil evaluations in Wasatch County?
Soil evaluations are a critical component of the septic system permit process in Wasatch County. Contractors must conduct soil evaluations to determine the suitability of the soil for wastewater disposal. The soil must have adequate permeability to allow for proper discharge of wastewater into the drainfield. The county health department requires specific test results to be submitted as part of the permit application.
How does the health department ensure public health with septic systems?
The health department ensures public health by enforcing regulations that govern the installation and maintenance of septic systems. This includes conducting inspections to certify that systems are functioning correctly and do not pose a risk to groundwater or water quality. The health department also provides guidelines for repair or replacement of failing systems to protect the environment and public health.

Disclaimer
This content, partially generated by LLM technology, is provided by Anderson Engineering for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. Each project is unique, and this material is not intended for design or construction purposes. For accurate, project-specific guidance, contact Anderson Engineering directly.